Decision Deferred On Development

April 10, 1985|by MELANIE DEVAULT, The Morning Call

Lower Macungie Township planners reviewed a revised preliminary plan for the five-lot Big Valley land subdivision last night, holding firm to previous concerns about what one planner termed "the sensitivity of the area."

The planners agreed to write to the United States Geologic Survey for more information on the land at Fairchild and Longswamp roads before making a decision.

They want the USGS's feelings on the impact of any sanitary sewer system on groundwater there, since previous survey information showed three bedrock fractures on the land.

Township engineer Frank Waldraff told consultant Thomas Sherman of Pottstown, who was representing land owner Charles Danweber, "We have every indication this land is highly questionable. We want a plan that shows everything necessary for the township to act. The township can't take action on the plan until they are assured . . . sewer service can be brought in."

The commission had asked the developer during an initial preliminary plan review last December to show all percolation test sites on the plan, including sites that failed.

Waldraff noted all test sites have not been shown.

Sherman argued that the subdivision actually straddles Lower Macungie and Longswamp townships, and the majority of the sites that failed were in Longswamp, who already approved the plan. "We already said in our presentation that we are not building houses; we are selling lots," he added.

Waldraff said that has no bearing on the matter, explaining lots can't be sold unless they conform to township standards to allow for building.

Planner Philip Klotz commented: "I have a real concern about passing this plan because of the sensitivity of the area and the potential impact it might have on groundwater supply.

"I want to know whether this sand mound (septic system) could affect ground water with these bedrock fractures." He asked for the additional input from USGS.

Another area of concern was with regard to drainage plans. Waldraff noted no design was shown for roadside swales or between-lot swales "to transfer considerable drainage to the cross pipes along Longswamp Road."

He also asked for comments on the impact of drainage with consideration given to inadequate pipes along Longswamp.

In another matter, the commission reviewed a sketch plan for land development for a cluster concept plan at 3403 Orchid Place, to include two single family and one triplex unit.

Engineer James Birdsall, representing land owner Bud Rader, explained that this exclusive concept best fit the oddly-shaped, six-acre tract which lies between Riverbend Road and Lehigh Creek, with 300 feet of frontage on Orchid.

The proposal requires a number of zoning variances with regard to land requirements and design grading. The township's zoners will consider those matters Monday night.

Birdsall asked the commission for a comment on the concept, but at Township Solicitor Paul Eyster'ssuggestion, the commission agreed they need more time to study the concept.

The commission also recommended final approval for Martin Farms, a 16-lot subdivision at 8338 Hensingersville Road.